MCAS Grade 5 Science case studies
MCAS Grade 5 Science · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The MCAS Grade 5 Science test is the Massachusetts statewide science assessment given to fifth graders, part of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) run by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Statewide testing gives families an objective measure of a child's and school's progress, and federal and state laws require it. Students in grades 5, 8, and one high school grade (usually grade 9 or 10) take a science MCAS test; grade 5 is therefore the first science administration most students meet. The test is computer-delivered and uses a variety of question formats, including multiple choice, short answers, and essays. The MCAS Grade 5 Science case studies are 5 cases and about 2,349 words.
1The Fertilizer Fair Test
Ortiz's fifth-grade class is testing whether fertilizer helps bean plants grow. Group A puts four bean plants in identical cups on the windowsill.
504 words, about 3 min2Where Did the Sugar Go?
During a matter unit, Devon pours 200 g of water into a clear cup and places the cup on a balance. He adds 10 g of sugar and stirs until no crystals can be seen.
453 words, about 2 min3The Stream Table Test
Two groups build stream tables from identical trays tilted at the same angle. Group 1 packs one tray with bare soil.
459 words, about 2 min4Shadow Tracking
On a sunny day, students place a 1 m stick upright in the schoolyard and mark the tip of its shadow every hour from 9:00 a.m. The stick stays in the same spot all day, and the weather stays clear.
471 words, about 2 min5The Paper Bridge Challenge
Teams have 10 index cards, 30 cm of tape, and 20 minutes to build a bridge that spans a 20 cm gap between two desks. A cup is hung from the middle, and weights are added until the bridge fails.
462 words, about 2 min